Movie Review: Maze Runner: The Death Cure

Welcome (back) to the Scorch!

I had an opportunity to watch the new Maze Runner: The Death Cure movie before it releases next weekend, and I must say overall I enjoyed this bittersweet ending to the trilogy series. Picking up where 2015’s Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials left off — and bringing the best and most kinetic of the post-apocalyptic YA sagas to a finish —  The Death Cure reintroduces us to a fallen world where a killer virus has taken over most of the population. 

There isn’t even an opening title card or voiceover to remind you who’s who, what’s what or how we got to this point as we rejoin the action. You’ll gradually piece together that Thomas and his friends Newt and Frypan have survived the Maze, and teamed up with Jorge, Brenda and freedom fighter Vince. No time for introductions! Having escaped the sinister organization WCKD in the last film, Thomas and friends try to rescue their captive friend Minho. But they’ll need to venture into the Last City left after the ‘Flare’ plague killed many and turned others into zombie-like monsters. Oh! The Irony. 

The first and second films were one long chase scene, while this one keeps up the pace and becomes more of a running battle. There are some moments that were a little cheesy, but if you are like me, who loves a good trilogy and isn't afraid to admit it – this was a decent ending to the overall series. There are some twists in the movies (no spoilers here) and times where you might shed a tear or two, or at least the girl next to me did. 

All in all, The Death Cure provides a satisfying conclusion to The Maze Runner trilogy that will likely appease fans of the film franchise. The Death Cure is an enjoyable enough experience for fans or those with low expectations. Like me! 

Maze Runner: The Death Cure starts playing in theaters Thursday evening, January 25th. It runs for 2 hours and 22 minutes and is rated PG-13. I give it a 3 out of 5. -xo Mel